News & Events

21st October - New Chair for Bus Users

Former Under Secretary of State for Transport, the Rt Hon Norman Baker, is to be the new Chair of Bus Users.

Norman Baker said: “I am delighted to be joining Bus Users UK. I know from my time as a transport minister just what a valuable role they play on behalf of bus passengers. Bus travel is a crucial and often neglected form of public transport. I am strong supporter both of the bus and the bus passenger, and will be bringing that to my role for Bus Users."

In welcoming him as Chair, Claire Walters, Chief Executive of Bus Users said: “Norman Baker has been a committed campaigner on transport issues and brings with him a wealth of expertise and a deeply held passion for transport. We very much look forward to working with him and ensuring that policy and decision makers give greater priority to the bus and that the voice of bus passengers is heard.”

Norman Baker was elected Liberal Democrat MP for Lewes in 1997 becoming Shadow DEFRA Secretary then Shadow Transport Secretary. In 2010 he was appointed Parliamentary Under-Secretary, Department for Transport and from 2013 until 2014 he was Minister of State, Home Office under the Coalition Government. During his time with the Department for Transport, Norman’s achievements included the £600million Local Sustainable Transport Fund which saw £1billion of sustainable transport projects announced across the country.

Norman will take over from Tracy Jessop who is currently acting Chair of Bus Users. Tracy also welcomed the appointment saying: “Bus Users is entering a new and exciting phase in its work as passenger champion. The unique skills and experience that Norman Baker has to offer will add enormous value to that work. I know that Norman is highly regarded for the knowledge he has of transport and he has a strong grasp on key issues. This really is a coup for Bus Users and I couldn’t wish for someone better equipped to take over the Board leadership.”